Caregiver Tips

As a family caregiver, you understandably are concerned about your loved one-both his or her physical well-being as well as his or her emotional and mental state. Compassion and empathy are just as important as treatments. Your loved one appreciates your presence and your support. It can be an oasis in an otherwise turbulent time.

In the weeks immediately following a diagnosis of cancer, a person typically has what's called "reactionary depression." This is a normal response to a major upheaval in one's life. Cancer changes everything-including the definition of a "normal" day or a "normal" reaction to circumstances and people.

With this in mind, exercise caution in trying to gauge whether depression is present or not-as the stage of illness, the type of cancer present, cancer treatments, and other medications may cause symptoms mimicking depression.

Remember that depression doesn't affect everyone with cancer, and that feeling sad at times may be normal. It is not uncommon for family caregivers to be the first to notice changes that can indicate depression, such as irritability, loss of interest in activities that are usually enjoyed, or memory problems. If you notice multiple symptoms that are present almost every day over a period of weeks, then consider speaking with the patient or the patient's healthcare provider. If the patient expresses a desire to harm himself or herself, let a healthcare provider know immediately. If at any other time you have concerns that a person for whom you are caring may be experiencing depression, it is best to make the person's healthcare provider aware of your concerns.